Family Spotlights: Ramsey After Dark and Winter Trails Day

Snowdrops in gardens and seeing owls during daylight are just some of the superstitious omens that were believed during the Victorian era. Find out the meanings of these and other customs during a special evening at the Alexander Ramsey House. Hear excerpts from Ramsey family letters and journals and play fortunetelling games in the parlor. Reservations required. (7 p.m. Fri. $7-$10. Alexander Ramsey House, 265 S. Exchange St., St. Paul. 651-296-8760. www.mnhs.org.)

Yes, it's a bit cold and there are mounds of snow, but those aren't excuses to stay indoors. Grab a hat and a coat and head outside for some fresh air. Try snowshoeing and geocaching. Naturalists will lead hikes. Learn about skijoring, dogsledding and building a quinzee. (11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. Free. Fort Snelling State Park, 5701 Leavenworth Av. S., Mpls. 612-725-2724. www.dnr.state.mn.us.)